Wilton projects aim to curb erosion and protect Wilson Lake and Varnum Pond, with shoreline and water quality improvements expected to benefit the community for years to come.

Just a few weeks into the 2025-26 year, Regional School Unit 9 schools are already gaining momentum: Cascade Brook students posted above-average state test scores, Mt. Blue Middle opened its long-awaited culinary kitchen, and W.G. Mallett families packed open house events that principals say show strong community support.

Western Maine Transportation Services has expanded the GreenLine commuter bus to six weekday round trips, boosting connections from Franklin County to Lewiston-Auburn.

Officials in Franklin County have acknowledged the need for 1,000 additional housing units by 2030, primarily for low- and middle-income workers, underscoring that even Maine’s second-smallest county faces a housing shortage.

A man was injured on Sept. 26 when about two tons of wood fuel pellets fell on him at Lignetics of Maine at 30 Norton Hill Road in Strong. His co-workers had already dug him out from under the pellets by the time firefighters arrived.

The Phillips Fire Department will hold its annual banquet on Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Phillips Area Community Center. Dinner will be served at 5 p.m., followed by department promotions and awards. In addition, four citizens will be recognized with honors for heroism, community service, and the Good Samaritan Award.

Treat Memorial Library in Livermore Falls will host its Homeschool Group on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at 11:30 a.m. and Tuesday, Oct. 21, at 1 p.m. The sessions will feature activities for learning and creative play, with this month’s theme, Alebrijes & Otomi: Exploring Animals in Mexican Folk Art. Families are invited to join and connect with other homeschooling families.

Underwood Memorial Library in Fayette will welcome Debbie Barnett from the University of Maine Cooperative Extension throughout October. Barnett, part of the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), will lead engaging food and nutrition sessions for adults and children. Programs will be offered Wednesday evenings from 6 to 7 p.m., and all are invited to attend.

The University of Maine at Farmington Athletics and Narrow Gauge Cinema will present the Farmington Haunted Walk on October 17 and 18 from 6 to 9 p.m., starting at 274 Front Street and winding a half mile through the Prescott Trail System to the Big Sky Grill. The event includes free hot cocoa and s’mores, horse-drawn carriage rides back to the parking lot, and glow sticks for a kid-friendly option. Admission is by cash or check, with no refunds after October 15. More details are available at farmingtonhauntedwalk.weebly.com.